7 beginner-friendly mountain biking destinations across the US
From Colorado to the Poconos, these spots deliver if you’re new to the sport.
When you’re just starting out, mountain biking can feel like an exclusive club reserved for Evel Knievel–level daredevils. Balancing on two wheels while zooming over boulders and tree roots at top speeds—what could possibly go wrong? But the sport is surprisingly accessible to even the most tentative newbies. You can stick to easy terrain, ride slowly and cautiously, and take lots of breaks, and no one will judge you so long as you’re having fun (or you’re “stoked,” in mountain bike lingo).
If you’ve always wanted to give it a try, head to one of these beginner-friendly mountain biking destinations across the U.S., where you can master a new skill on vacation.
Snowmass, CO
Try not to get too distracted by the sheer beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley while riding at Snowmass Bike Park, situated on the very same Rocky Mountain slopes that skiers and snowboarders shred in the winter. The park’s 25 miles of meticulously designed bike trails cover nearly 3,000 vertical feet, winding through aspen groves and wildflower-filled meadows.
The instructors at Snowmass are some of the best in the business, able to break down even the most complex techniques into easy-to-digest lessons for newcomers. And if you don’t have your own gear or you just don’t want to lug yours with you on vacation, that’s no problem—the resort can set you up with a rental bike.
Outside of the bike park, Snowmass and neighboring Aspen are home to more than 300 miles of mountain biking trails, plus dozens of knowledgeable guides and friendly cycling shops. Book a lesson or guided excursion with Sun Dog Athletics, rent from Aspen Bikes, or get the crew at Blazing Adventures to drive you and your bike up the picturesque Maroon Bells peaks so you can cruise back down on two wheels.
For a family-friendly stay, book a room at the Limelight Hotel Snowmass—and be sure to set your alarm clock so you don’t miss the hotel’s hearty complimentary breakfast spread in the morning.
Travelers say: “One of the most beautiful places in the world to visit is Maroon Bells. Blazing Adventures makes this even more exciting by offering this relatively easy 10-mile bike ride to see it. You take a bus up the mountain and the two guides lead the way down the mountain on bikes (after having spent about 15 minutes taking pics at Maroon Bells). It was so much fun and my three teens and I loved every aspect of this trip. An exciting and fun way to spend 3–4 hours in Aspen!”—@missymom23
Branson, MO
Branson may be best known for its live shows and entertainment, but this southwest Missouri town, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, is a prime destination for mountain biking.
Start at Howler Bike Park, a new 200-acre property dedicated to riding. Rent a bike (as well as a full-face helmet, chest protector, and knee and elbow pads) and go straight to the Strollercoaster, which is the longest route in the park and specifically designed for beginners. Once you’ve built up some confidence, hit intermediate trails like Hippie Cowboy and Momo. And know that the park has an all-wheel-drive military cargo vehicle to shuttle you and your bike to the top of your desired path, so you don’t have to worry about huffing and puffing uphill.
You can pitch a tent, glamp, or van camp right at the park, which also has a restaurant, coffee shop, and bike shop. But if you prefer a few more amenities, stay at Savannah House Hotel, Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge, or the Lodge of the Ozarks.
The next day, up the ante on the White River Valley Trail System at Table Rock State Park, where you’ll find four loops of varying difficulty linked by small trails. Novices should start on the orange loop, which is around three-quarters of a mile and has waterfall views along Baird Mountain Creek.
Roanoke, VA
The self-proclaimed mountain biking capital of the East Coast, Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain region has some seriously good riding. But don’t let that intimate you—beginners in Roanoke and the surrounding area can still have a great time on more than 400 miles of mountain biking trails.
When you get into town, make Roanoke Mountain Adventures your first stop. Rent a bike, get intel on local trails, and sign up for a novice mountain bike outing led by experienced guides.
If you’re eager to hit the trails on your own, head to Mill Mountain, Carvins Cove, or George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Then reward your hard work with a pint at one of Roanaoke’s many delicious craft breweries, like Big Lick Brewing Co. or Twisted Track Brewpub. When you’re ready to call it a day, check into one of the region’s many bike-friendly lodgings, including the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Primland Resort, and Wattstull Inn.
Travelers say: "[Carvins Cove keeps] getting better with new trails all the time. There are fire roads for the less experienced riders, as well as intermediate and expert trails. If you like to climb, there is no shortage of elevation in the park—but trails like Songbird and School House allow you to ride quality singletrack without busting your lungs. ...Be sure to [check out] the Bennett Springs parking lot. That's the best access for biking."—@carlinthecyclist
The Poconos, PA
Venture to the Poconos for a long weekend filled with easy riding at Blue Mountain Resort. Come spring, this 164-acre ski area becomes a warm-weather playground, with great mountain biking as well as disc golf, rock climbing, laser tag, archery, fitness classes, and more.
Hit the on-site rental shop, then take an introductory lesson to grasp the ins and outs of form, safety, and technique. (If you’ve already been riding and just want to get better, you can also sign up for one of the resort’s special skill improvement classes.) When you feel comfortable enough to head out on your own, practice on the 3.3-mile-long beginner trail, Shakedown Street.
If you prefer something a little flatter, the Poconos offer plenty of mellow rides, like the Levee Loop Trail in East Stroudsburg. For a longer excursion, book a multi-day, guided trip with Pocono Biking along the Delaware & Lehigh Trail or the Erie Canal Trail. You’ll ride during the day, then tuck into a cozy lodging at night, like the Inn at Jim Thorpe or the Hotel Bethlehem.
McCall, ID
Situated about 110 miles north of Boise, McCall boasts seemingly endless terrain for mountain-biking newbies. Once the snow melts at Tamarack Resort and Brundage Mountain Resort, the slopes transform into mountain biking trails (and, as is common at ski destinations in the off-season, the chairlifts become handy bike conveyors).
Jug Mountain Ranch has miles of free mountain bike trails through ponderosa pines and scenic meadows, as well as bike rentals and lessons. Beginners can get their bearings on trails like South Boundary, a breezy two-mile ride with stunning views, and DoeJoe, a downhill-only descent on Jug Mountain. Ponderosa State Park and the Bear Basin trail system are also worth exploring on your own. Before you head out, rent bikes from McCall Sports, Gravity Sports, or Home Town Sports. As you gain skills, go with the pros at Payette Powder Guides on a longer, guided backcountry trip.
While in town, stay at Shore Lodge, overlooking the shimmering waters of Payette Lake. When you need a break from the bike, you can spend the day fishing for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, lake trout, and kokanee salmon, or cruising around on a Jet ski or pontoon boat rental from Mile High Marina.
Vail, CO
Known for its ski slopes, Vail also has hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails (and plenty of paved, flat paths for warming up, too). The town also has a wide variety of bike shops and gear-rental options—from Vail Bike Hub to Christy Sports—so you can just show up and start riding.
For when you don’t feel like powering your way uphill, there’s Vail Ski Resort and Beaver Creek Resort, where you can take your bike on the chairlifts and gondolas to the top of the trails. At Vail, cruise down meandering routes like Sidekick and Gitalong Road; at Beaver Creek, point your wheels toward Dally or the Village to Village trail. In the summer, both resorts also offer tons of family-friendly activities beyond biking, from mini golf and gem-panning to bungee trampolines and zip lines.
After a day in the saddle, retreat to the Sonnenalp, a centrally located, European-inspired hotel where you can ease your aching quads in one of several hot tubs with views of Gore Creek. Another option is The Hythe, a posh, newly renovated hotel with three great spots for grabbing an après-bike drink or meal: Revel Lounge, 10th Mountain, and Margie’s Haas. The Hythe can also set you up with several customizable mountain biking experiences, like a day of downhill riding with a professional guide.
Asheville, NC
Backed by dense oak and hickory forests, rushing waterfalls, and the rolling peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, the mountain biking trails in Asheville showcase jaw-droppingly beautiful views.
For an insider experience, visit The Bike Farm, where you can rent a bike, take a lesson, or book a half- or full-day outing with a local cycling guide. Koko Bike Park is another great beginner’s playground in Asheville, with trails and features that are designed to be progressive, meaning you’ll be able to advance from one to the next as your abilities improve.
Travelers say: "Brooke [at The Bike Farm] was great with my 7-year-old son, who is a great biker but [it was his] first time mountain biking. ...He made sure the pace was right for us, had great suggestions of trails for views, history, or fun factor. We never felt pushed beyond our comfort, and Brooke took as many stops as we needed."—@travelwithwonder2021
Post up at the Windsor Boutique Hotel in Asheville’s historic downtown, then take an e-bike tour of the surrounding area. Also make time to wander the 8,000-acre Biltmore estate, a French Renaissance-style castle built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century—it’s the largest privately owned house in the country.